Todd Barrow is making a name for himself as a country artist to watch. The Texas singer-songwriter has racked up more than a few accolades, from a PRSA Award of Excellence, an Akademia Award for Best Country Album, and an artist spotlight in Alternative Roots Magazine, American Pride Magazine and AVA Radio.
He has appeared on television shows including Good Morning Texas with Jerry Matheny and Texas Music Café on PBS. He’s even shared the stage and studio with some of country music’s heaviest hitters, from CMA musicians in Miranda Lambert’s band to Fort Worth Producer of the Year Bart Rose. But it’s more than just Todd’s success to date that makes him such a compelling country artist. What’s most readily apparent in Todd Barrow’s music is his heart.
Todd’s music is no country for old men. While he undoubtedly draws his sonic influence from titans like Hank Williams and Johnny Cash, his melodies skew modern. He plays almost every instrument, from piano to guitar, mandolin, harmonica, and drums, and the multi-instrumentalist doubles as a songwriter for himself as well as for other artists. “”If I can put a smile on someone’s face through song, well that just means the world to me,” he says. “I try to get to the real heart and soul of a song. To me, it’s not just words but a story, and I do my best to portray that with every line. That’s my main draw to country music; the stories, the people, and the sincerity that comes from the heart.”
It’s precisely that heart that has won over audiences around the world. Todd Barrow’s recent single, “The House That Love Built”, co-written with Sonny Burgess, was featured on RightNow TV and was honored by PRSA Fort Worth for its fundraising efforts on behalf of the Ronald McDonald house. Todd was featured in the lineup for Bo’s Extravaganza festival at John Schneider’s Studio, alongside such artists as Kid Rock and Tom Wopat from Dukes of Hazzard. He has received radio airplay from Italy Radio 6.75 for his single “Hot Southern Night”.
Todd Barrow just released his latest single, “Hell and Back,” written by longtime Nashville songwriter Lonnie Ratliff, and is hard at work on new music in the studio. Todd is a proud member of the Harry Fox Agency, the Country Music Association, the International Singer-Songwriters Association, the Texas Music Office, BMI, the Fort Worth Songwriters Association, American Music Podcasting, the NSAIDFW Songwriters Association, the Dallas Songwriters Association, the British Country Music Association and the Bayou Country Music Association.
Q: First of all tell us about the start of your professional career?
My journey in music began at an early age. My parents were very musical and encouraged me to learn various instruments. Then started in talent shows appearing on TV programs and recording jingles for commercials. Years later after a lot of music endeavors met Sonny Burgess a country star in his own right. He directed me towards the country music arena.
Q: What advice would you give to beginners who are nervous?
Imagine your the only one in the room just singing to yourself. Take deep breathes and go for it!!! Have fun with the music and feed off the audience.
Q:When you decide it’s time to make a new record, is that more exciting or stressful?
Kind of a mixture. Creating new music is a great way to relieve stress. I enjoy the process of taking a song and giving it wings. Knowing it will bring joy to a lot of listeners.
Q: How easily do songs tend to come to you?
They come to me all the time. I write from life experiences then translate in musical form. They are like my babies to share with the world. It just comes naturally!
Q: What’s your motto or the advice you live by?
“Never give up!” I’ve learned to get past rejection. Take the good with bad because tomorrow is a new day. Working hard to play harder. I’m on a mission.
Q: What is you favorite song to belt out at the bar/in the car right now?
My new country release, “Hell and Back!” A great story about love and faithfulness. A catchy tune that seems to get the crowd going!
Q :What are your future goals as a music artist?
In the process to become a voting grammy member with the recording academy. Collaborate with some stellar songwriters to bring the best country music possible on radio. A EP album is on the agenda for 2020.
Q: What was your most memorable performance to date?
My performance at the George Jones in Nashville. A charity event called Pickin & Kickin Cancer. In honor of Ava Paige a female country artist who has leukemia. Never forget it!!!
Q :How can we follow you on social media ?? I love social media.
You can find me on all the major platforms such as:
http://www.facebook.com/ToddBarrowMusic
http://www.twitter.com/ToddBarrowMusic
http://www.instagram.com/ToddBarrowMusic1
Website- http://www.ToddBarrowMusic.com
